Editor: The Feb. 19 editorial, “Resolve key gas question,” baselessly suggests that the safe, tightly regulated development of clean-burning natural gas from the Marcellus Shale may be degrading public health. However, the facts tell a wildly different story.
Indeed, a recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency release demonstrates the inherent public health benefits associated with natural gas, especially as it relates to enhancing air quality. Last month, EPA announced that toxic air pollutants across the Mid-Atlantic region were down nearly 14 percent, due principally to expanded natural gas production and use.
Likewise, the U.S. Energy Information Administration has found that the nation’s CO2 emissions are now at a 20-year low – also thanks, in part, to natural gas. And further, as the Associated Press reported last year, “Critics of fracking also repeat claims of extreme air pollution threats, even as evidence mounts that the natural gas boom is in some ways contributing to cleaner air.”
“We produce more natural gas than ever before and nearly everyone’s energy bill is lower because of it,” said President Obama in his recent State of the Union address, adding: “The natural gas boom has led to cleaner power and greater energy independence. We need to encourage that.”
We absolutely agree.
The real tragedy is the Times-Tribune’s “failure to be informed” on these important facts.
KATHRYN KLABER
CEO, MARCELLUS SHALE COALITION
NOTE: Click HERE to view this letter online.
